Rose asked for input about being asked to collaborate with a manufacturer of
breastmilk substitute on a booklet about BF.
I agree with Kathleen Bruce, steer clear.  You could go so far as to refer
them to the chapters and paragraphs in the WHO Code which speak to the
prohibition against manufacturers of any products covered by the Code,
seeking contact with expectant or new parents.  This activity alone is
banned specifically by the Code.  Even if unratified, surely this
manufacturer with such high-minded goals (providing info to BF mothers!)
would like to be seen as exemplary, complying with international guidelines
even when not required to by law?  (and I do still believe in Santa, too!)

Another activity banned by the code is having any employee involved in
marketing, used in an informational capacity directed at expectant or new
parents.

You might also simply refer them to some of the excellent literature on
weaning, or the AAP statement on exclusive BF for 6 months, and let them do
their own homework.

And, you definitely should make all local maternity institutions aware of
the AAP statement, the WHO Code, and the attempts by this manufacturer to do
something counter to both.

It is naive to think that the collaboration of one righteous person will
change the tactics or the effect of a gigantic company whose profit depends
on breastfeeding failure.  The righteous person stands to lose her
credibility and the company stands to gain.  My credibility is not for sale
and I hope none of yours is either.

Rachel Myr
climbing down from the soapbox after expressing my 30 ml or so in
Kristiansand, Norway

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